Methods, systems, and products for monitoring health

ABSTRACT

Methods, systems, and products monitor a person&#39;s regimen for medicinal and dietary restrictions. When the person&#39;s regimen requires a liquid medication or supplement, an oral instrument is commanded to dispense a dosage of fluid. The oral instrument stores a reservoir of the fluid. If the oral instrument is a spoon, for example, the spoon may automatically dispense cough syrup or other medicine. A toothbrush, likewise, may automatically dispense mouthwash. A sensor may confirm presence of the oral instrument in the person&#39;s mouth, thus ensuring the dosage of fluid is ingested.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Divisional of and claims priority to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/647,426 filed Oct. 9, 2012. The contents of theforegoing is hereby incorporated by reference into this application asif set forth herein in full.

COPYRIGHT NOTIFICATION

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document and its attachmentscontain material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyrightowner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of thepatent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patentand Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves allcopyrights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND

Good health is important to all people. We all want to adopt regimensthat help ensure a long and happy life. Maintaining a regimen, though,is hard for many people.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The features, aspects, and advantages of the exemplary embodiments areunderstood when the following Detailed Description is read withreference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a simplified schematic illustrating an environment in whichexemplary embodiments may be implemented;

FIG. 2 is a more detailed schematic illustrating an operatingenvironment, according to exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 3 is a schematic illustrating retrieval of a regimen, according toexemplary embodiments;

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustrating dosage determinations, according toexemplary embodiments;

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustrating a dosage command, according toexemplary embodiments;

FIGS. 6-7 are schematics illustrating saliva detection, according toexemplary embodiments;

FIGS. 8-9 are schematics illustrating detection of electricalconductance, according to exemplary embodiments;

FIGS. 10-11 are schematics illustrating detection of temperature,according to exemplary embodiments;

FIGS. 12-13 are schematics illustrating detection of motion, accordingto exemplary embodiments;

FIGS. 14-15 are schematics illustrating detection of pressure, accordingto exemplary embodiments;

FIGS. 16-17 are schematics illustrating detection of an operationalmode, according to exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 18 is a schematic illustrating confirmation of dispensation,according to exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 19 is a schematic illustrating alarm capabilities, according toexemplary embodiments;

FIG. 20 is a schematic illustrating social postings, according toexemplary embodiments;

FIGS. 21-22 are detailed block diagrams of an injector mechanism,according to exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 23 is a block diagram illustrating operational parameters,according to exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 24 is another detailed block diagram of the injector mechanism,according to exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 25 is a schematic illustrating fluidic electrodes, according toexemplary embodiments;

FIGS. 26A, 26B and 26C are schematics illustrating means for reducingturbulence in a fluid reservoir, according to exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 27-28 are flowcharts illustrating a method or algorithm formonitoring health, according to exemplary embodiments;

FIGS. 29-30 depict still more operating environments for additionalaspects of the exemplary embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafterwith reference to the accompanying drawings. The exemplary embodimentsmay, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not beconstrued as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Theseembodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough andcomplete and will fully convey the exemplary embodiments to those ofordinary skill in the art. Moreover, all statements herein recitingembodiments, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended toencompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof.Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include bothcurrently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in thefuture (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function,regardless of structure).

Thus, for example, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill inthe art that the diagrams, schematics, illustrations, and the likerepresent conceptual views or processes illustrating the exemplaryembodiments. The functions of the various elements shown in the figuresmay be provided through the use of dedicated hardware as well ashardware capable of executing associated software. Those of ordinaryskill in the art further understand that the exemplary hardware,software, processes, methods, and/or operating systems described hereinare for illustrative purposes and, thus, are not intended to be limitedto any particular named manufacturer.

As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless expressly stated otherwise. Itwill be further understood that the terms “includes,” “comprises,”“including,” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification,specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations,elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence oraddition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations,elements, components, and/or groups thereof. It will be understood thatwhen an element is referred to as being “connected” or “coupled” toanother element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the otherelement or intervening elements may be present. Furthermore, “connected”or “coupled” as used herein may include wirelessly connected or coupled.As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations ofone or more of the associated listed items.

It will also be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc.may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements shouldnot be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguishone element from another. For example, a first device could be termed asecond device, and, similarly, a second device could be termed a firstdevice without departing from the teachings of the disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a simplified schematic illustrating an environment in whichexemplary embodiments may be implemented. A communications device 20communicates with one or more oral instruments 22 via a communicationsnetwork 24. The communications device 20 is illustrated as a smart phone26, but the communications device 20 may be any computer, tablet,server, or any other processor-controlled device. FIG. 1, forsimplicity, illustrates one of the oral instruments 22 as an electronictoothbrush 28. Another one of the oral instruments 22 is illustrated asan electronic spoon 30. The oral instrument 22, of course, may be anyutensil or device capable of being inserted into an oral cavity of auser. Whatever the oral instrument 22, electronics 32 may analyze fluidsand food to help the user maintain a diet. The toothbrush 28, forexample, may have one or more sensors 34 that detect the ingredients orcharacteristics of residual food particles in the mouth or between thebristles. The sensor 34 in the spoon 30 may analyze food scooped intothe bowl of the spoon 30. Likewise, if the oral instrument 22 is a fork,the sensor 34 analyze food stabbed by a prong. Regardless, theelectronics 32 analyze sensor outputs from the sensor 34 to help theuser track an amount of food consumed and/or a type of food consumed.The sensor 34, for example, may sense any chemical compound. Intake ofsalts (chlorides) and glucose, for example, may help monitor anddetermine hypertension, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Temperaturein the mouth may be sensed to predict ovulation. DNA/RNA may be sensed,collected, and/or analyzed to determine genomic information. Thenutritional content of foods may be determined, based on their chemicalcomposition. Whatever the sensor 34 senses, the sensor outputs may becompared to a regimen 36. The regimen 36 describes any dietary plan,restriction, or medicinal schedule. The oral instrument 22 may thus beused to monitor ingestion for adherence to the regimen 36.

The oral instrument 22 may also dispense a fluid 40. The oral instrument22 may have an injector mechanism 42 that is capable of dispensing thefluid 40 from a fluid reservoir 44. That is, as the oral instrument 22is used, the fluid 40 may be dispensed into a mouth of the user. So, asthe user brushes her teeth, for example, the toothbrush 28 mayautomatically dispense mouthwash or fluoride. If the user needs coughmedicine, the spoon 30 may automatically dispense the cough medicine.Whatever the fluid 40, the oral instrument 22 may dispense the fluid 40according to the regimen 36, as later paragraphs will explain.

The oral instrument 22 may thus help enforce the regimen 36. Many peoplehave difficulty following the often rigid requirements of a medicinalplan. The oral instrument 22, however, helps the user adhere to theregimen 36. Because the oral instrument 22 may dispense the fluid 40,the oral instrument 22 may automatically dispense liquid medications.The fluid reservoir 44, for example, may contain cough syrup, liquidantibiotic, or mouthwash. When the user brushes their teeth or ingestsfood, the oral instrument 22 may inject the fluid 40. The oralinstrument 22 may also log each dosage of the fluid 40, and report eachdosage to caregivers, as later paragraphs will explain. Exemplaryembodiments thus help the user monitor and adhere to their medicinalregimen 36.

The oral instrument 22 also helps enforce dietary needs. The regimen 36,for example, may detail specific foods which should be eaten, and/oravoided, to meet a dietary or exercise goal. The sensor 34 may thusdetermine the nutritional content of ingested food, and monitorcompliance with daily nutritional requirements. Because the oralinstrument 22 may dispense the fluid 40, the oral instrument 22 mayautomatically dispense a liquid appetite suppressant to discourage andreduce consumption. The fluid 40, alternatively, may be a flavorenhancer that complements flavors in food. The fluid 40 may even be aconcentrated gravy, liquid spice, or refreshment that is dispensed fromthe oral instrument 22.

The oral instrument 22 may be locally or remotely controlled. Theelectronics 32 in the oral instrument 22 may have the capability tolocally analyze the regimen 36 and to determine when to dispense thefluid 40. However, because the oral instrument 22 interfaces with thecommunications device 20, the oral instrument 22 may even send thesensor outputs to the communications device 20 for remote analysis. Thatis, the communications device 20 may upload the sensor outputs from thesensor 34, and the communications device 20 may compare the sensoroutputs to the regimen 36. The communications device 20 may thus sendcommands to the oral instrument 22. The oral instrument 22 may thus beremotely instructed to analyze food or to dispense the fluid 40.

Exemplary embodiments thus help monitor the user's health. The oralinstrument 22 may analyze the food consumed by the user, thus helpingthe user maintain the dietary or medicinal regimen 36. The oralinstrument 22 may also dispense medicinal fluids 40, perhaps againaccording to the regimen 36. So, as the spoon 30 is used for eating, forexample, medicine may be automatically dispensed, thus relieving theuser of having to remember to take medication. The oral instrument 22may even chime, beep, or otherwise alert when medication is due, thusagain helping the user maintain the regimen 36. Exemplary embodimentsthus remove mental barriers that often prevent people from adhering totheir health regimen 36.

FIG. 2 is a more detailed schematic illustrating an operatingenvironment, according to exemplary embodiments. The communicationsdevice 20 and the oral instrument 22 may cooperate to help the useradhere to their health regimen 36. The communications device 20 may havea processor 50 (e.g., “μP”), application specific integrated circuit(ASIC), or other component that executes a device-side monitoringapplication 52 stored in a local memory 54. The oral instrument 22 mayalso have a processor 56 (e.g., “μP”), application specific integratedcircuit (ASIC), or other component that executes an instrument-sidemonitoring application 58 stored in a memory 60. The device-sidemonitoring application 52 and the instrument-side monitoring application58 may thus be instructions, code, and/or programs that cooperate toenforce the regimen 36. The device-side monitoring application 52 andthe instrument-side monitoring application 58 may also cooperate toshare sensor outputs 62 from the sensor 34 and/or to dispense the fluid40 from the fluid reservoir 44 in the oral instrument 22.

Exemplary embodiments may be applied regardless of networkingenvironment. The communications network 24 may be a cable networkoperating in the radio-frequency domain and/or the Internet Protocol(IP) domain. The communications network 24, however, may also include adistributed computing network, such as the Internet (sometimesalternatively known as the “World Wide Web”), an intranet, a local-areanetwork (LAN), and/or a wide-area network (WAN). The communicationsnetwork 24 may include coaxial cables, copper wires, fiber optic lines,and/or hybrid-coaxial lines. The communications network 24 may eveninclude wireless portions utilizing any portion of the electromagneticspectrum and any signaling standard (such as the IEEE 802 family ofstandards, GSM/CDMA/TDMA or any cellular standard, and/or the ISM band).The communications network 24 may even include powerline portions, inwhich signals are communicated via electrical wiring. The conceptsdescribed herein may be applied to any wireless/wireline communicationsnetwork, regardless of physical componentry, physical configuration, orcommunications standard(s).

FIG. 3 is a schematic illustrating retrieval of the regimen 36,according to exemplary embodiments. Because the communications device 20and the oral instrument 22 establish wireless and/or wiredcommunication, the oral instrument 22 may send a message 70 to thecommunications device 20. The message 70 may be an initializationmessage, a presence message, a registration message, or any other typeor function of message. The message 70 routes along the communicationsnetwork (illustrated as reference numeral 24 in FIG. 1) to a networkaddress associated with the communications device 20. The message 70includes an identifier 72 of the oral instrument 22. The identifier 72is any data or information that uniquely identifies the oral instrument22 from all other networked devices (such as printers and computers inthe user's home). When the communications device 20 receives the message70, the device-side monitoring application 52 obtains the uniqueidentifier 72 of the oral instrument 22.

The regimen 36 is retrieved. The device-side monitoring application 52queries a database 80 of regimens for the unique identifier 72 of theoral instrument 22. The database 80 of regimens is illustrated as beinglocally stored in the communications device 20, but the database 80 ofregimens may be remotely stored and accessed. The database 80 ofregimens is illustrated as a table 82 that maps, relates, or associatesdifferent identifiers 72 to different regimens 36. The device-sidemonitoring application 52 retrieves the regimen 36 associated with theunique identifier 72 of the oral instrument 22.

The regimen 36 may describe dietary requirements associated with theuser. The regimen 36 may describe foods which are prohibited orrestricted from consumption. The oral instrument 22, for example, maydetermine that the user is about to ingest peanuts which cause anallergic reaction. The oral instrument 22 may also determine that theuser is about to ingest food having a high glucose measurement. Theregimen 36 may thus logically describe dietary restrictions associatedwith the user of the oral instrument 22. The regimen 36 may be expressedas one or more rules, parameters, and thresholds that logically definedietary requirements.

The regimen 36 may also describe medicinal requirements. The regimen 36may describe dates and times that medication is required. The regimen 36may be expressed as one or more events 84 that must be executed at aparticular date and time. Oral medication, for example, may be requiredevery four (4) hours. The regimen 36 may thus express the medicinalrequirement as the event 84 to be executed once each four hour intervalof time. Each event 84 thus has an associated execution date and time86. The regimen 36 may thus have a queue 88 of events, with each event84 having its own execution date and time 86. The queue 88 may even bechronologically arranged.

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustrating dosage determinations, according toexemplary embodiments. Now that the regimen 36 is known, the device-sidemonitoring application 52 may inspect the regimen 36 for executableevents 84. However the regimen 36 is defined, the regimen 36 may havemultiple events 84 that are executed according to the execution date andtime 86. The device-side monitoring application 52 accesses a masterclock or signal that provides a current date and time 90. Thedevice-side monitoring application 52 may continuously compare thecurrent date and time 90 to the execution dates and times 86 defined inthe regimen 36. Each event 84 in the regimen 36 may have the associatedexecution date and time 86. When the current date and time 90 matchesany one of the execution dates and times 86, then the correspondingevent 84 is executed by the device-side monitoring application 52.

The event 84, for example, may require a dosage 100. Because the oralinstrument 22 may dispense liquid medication (e.g., the fluid 40illustrated in FIGS. 1-2), the event 84 may require that the oralinstrument 22 dispense the dosage 100 from the oral instrument 22. Theevent 84, for example, may require a teaspoon of cough medicine everyfour (4) hours. The event 84 may thus describe an amount of the fluid 40as the dosage 100. The dosage 100 may be expressed in metric or Englishunits. Whatever the event 84, the dosage 100 may be retrieved from theregimen 36.

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustrating a dosage command 110, according toexemplary embodiments. Once the required dosage 100 is determined fromthe event 84, the device-side monitoring application 52 may instruct theoral instrument 22 to administer the dosage 100. The device-sidemonitoring application 52 may thus cause the communications device 20 tosend a dosage command 110 to the network address associated with theoral instrument 22. The dosage command 110 may describe the dosage 100required to be dispensed by oral instrument 22. When the oral instrument22 receives the dosage command 110, the instrument-side monitoringapplication 58 instructs the injector mechanism 42 to dispense therequired dosage 100 from the fluid reservoir 44.

Exemplary embodiments may thus instruct the oral instrument 22 todispense the fluid 40. As the communications device 20 may continuouslyinspect the regimen 36, the communications device 20 determines when thedosage 100 is needed. The communications device 20 then instructs theoral instrument 22 to dispense the dosage 100 (e.g., liquid medication,mouthwash, or even sports drink). The oral instrument 22 may thus beremotely commanded to administer the dosage 100. The user's smart phone26, for example, may download the regimen 36 and monitor the events 84,thus relieving the user of those mental tasks. The regimen 36, however,may also be enforced by a home gateway computer or a cloud-based server.Whatever the communications device 20, at the appropriate time the oralinstrument 22 may be commanded to administer the dosage 100 of the fluid40 from the fluid reservoir 44. Exemplary embodiments may thus remotelymonitor and enforce the user's regimen 36 for healthy compliance.

FIGS. 6-7 are schematics illustrating saliva detection, according toexemplary embodiments. Even though the oral instrument 22 may becommanded to dispense the dosage 100, the oral instrument 22 must be inuse for effective oral administration. That is, if the oral instrument22 is not inserted into the user's mouth, the fluid 40 may not beingested by the user. Indeed, if the oral instrument 22 is merely lyingin a drawer, dispensation of the fluid 40 will be useless and messy.

Exemplary embodiments may thus ensure the oral instrument 22 is in use.The oral instrument 22 preferably only dispenses the fluid 40 wheninserted into the user's mouth. That is, the oral instrument 22 shouldonly dispense when deliberately used. Exemplary embodiments may thus usethe sensor 34 to determine deliberate use. If the oral instrument 22 isdetermined to be inserted into the user's oral cavity, then dispensationmay be authorized.

Exemplary embodiments may detect the presence of saliva 120 in theuser's mouth. The sensor 34, for example, may detect the presence of oneor more salts, which are commonly found in saliva 120. The sensor 34obtains its sensor output 62, and the processor 56 may be programmed tointerpret the sensor output 62. The instrument-side monitoringapplication 58, for example, may have one or more chemical thresholds122 for determining the presence of salts, chlorides, or any otherchemical or compound in saliva 120. Whatever chemical is detected, ifthe threshold 122 is satisfied, then the instrument-side monitoringapplication 58 may infer that the oral instrument 22 is in deliberateuse. That is, the presence of saliva 120 indicates that the oralinstrument 22 is placed in the mouth of the user. The instrument-sidemonitoring application 58 may thus authorize dispensing of the fluid 40.If presence of saliva 120 is not detected, the instrument-sidemonitoring application 58 may deny dispensing of the fluid 40. So, evenof the oral instrument 22 is commanded to dispense the fluid 40 (such asby the dosage command 110 illustrated in FIG. 5), the instrument-sidemonitoring application 58 may override and deny when saliva 120 is notpresent.

FIG. 7 illustrates remote notification of the saliva 120. When theinstrument-side monitoring application 58 determines the presence of thesaliva 120, the instrument-side monitoring application 58 may inform thecommunications device 20. The message 70 sent from the oral instrument22, for example, may include a saliva indication 130. When the message70 is received by the communications device 20, the device-sidemonitoring application 52 may inspect the message 70 for the salivaindication 130. If the saliva indication 130 indicates that saliva ispresent, then the device-side monitoring application 52 may commencewith retrieving and monitoring the regimen 36 (as earlier paragraphsexplained). If, however, the saliva indication 130 indicates that salivais not present, then the device-side monitoring application 52 may denydispensing of the fluid 40. Indeed, if saliva is not detected, thedevice-side monitoring application 52 may decline to retrieve andmonitor the regimen 36. There is no need to waste power and processingresources when the oral instrument 22 is not in use.

FIGS. 8-9 are schematics illustrating detection of electricalconductance 140, according to exemplary embodiments. Here theinstrument-side monitoring application 58 may use the electricalconductance 140 to infer deliberate use of the oral instrument 22. Whenthe oral instrument 22 is placed in the user's mouth, electrical currentand/or voltage may be flow and be present between different electrodes.That is, saliva, human tissue, and even toothpaste may conductelectricity. If the sensor 34 detects the electrical conductance 140,then the electrical conductance 140 may be compared to the threshold 122for conductance values. If the electrical conductance 140 satisfies thethreshold 122, the instrument-side monitoring application 58 may inferthat the oral instrument 22 is placed in the user's mouth. Theinstrument-side monitoring application 58 may thus authorize dispensingof the fluid 40. If the electrical conductance 140 is not detected, theinstrument-side monitoring application 58 may deny dispensing of thefluid 40. The instrument-side monitoring application 58 may thus ignoreor any dosage command 110 when the electrical conductance 140 is notdetected.

FIG. 9 illustrates remote notification of the electrical conductance140. When the instrument-side monitoring application 58 detects theelectrical conductance 140, the instrument-side monitoring application58 may inform the communications device 20. The message 70 sent from theoral instrument 22 may thus include information or data that describesthe electrical conductance 140. When the message 70 is received by thecommunications device 20, the device-side monitoring application 52 mayinspect the message 70 for the electrical conductance 140. If theelectrical conductance 140 is present, then the device-side monitoringapplication 52 may commence with retrieving and monitoring the regimen36 (as earlier paragraphs explained). If, however, the electricalconductance 140 is not present, then the device-side monitoringapplication 52 may deny dispensing of the fluid 40.

FIGS. 10-11 are schematics illustrating detection of temperature 150,according to exemplary embodiments. Here the sensor 34 may detect thetemperature 150 of some portion of the oral instrument 22 to inferdeliberate use. The sensor 34, for example, may be positioned within thebristled head of the toothbrush 28, within or near the bowl of the spoon30, or near a prong of a fork. The temperature 150 detected by thesensor 34 may thus determine whether the oral instrument 22 is placed inthe user's mouth. Like a thermometer, temperatures within a range of98.7 degrees may indicate that the oral instrument 22 is inserted intothe user's mouth. A lower temperature (such as room temperature) mayindicate the oral instrument 22 is lying in a drawer. Theinstrument-side monitoring application 58 may compare the temperature150 to the threshold value 122 (such as about 95 degrees or higher). Ifthe temperature 150 satisfies the threshold value 122, then theinstrument-side monitoring application 58 may infer that the oralinstrument 22 is placed in the user's mouth. The instrument-sidemonitoring application 58 may thus authorize dispensing of the fluid 40.If the temperature 150 is less than the threshold value 122, then theinstrument-side monitoring application 58 may infer that the oralinstrument 22 is not placed in the user's mouth. The instrument-sidemonitoring application 58 may thus deny dispensing of the fluid 40and/or ignore or any dosage command 110.

FIG. 11 illustrates remote notification of the temperature 150. When theinstrument-side monitoring application 58 receives the temperature 150from the sensor 34, the instrument-side monitoring application 58 mayinform the communications device 20. The message 70 sent from the oralinstrument 22 may thus include the temperature 150 detected by thesensor 34. When the message 70 is received by the communications device20, the device-side monitoring application 52 may itself compare thetemperature 150 to the threshold value 122. If the temperature 150satisfies the threshold value 122, then the device-side monitoringapplication 52 may infer that the oral instrument 22 is placed in theuser's mouth. The device-side monitoring application 52 may thusauthorize dispensing of the fluid 40. If the temperature 150 is lessthan the threshold value 122, then the device-side monitoringapplication 52 may deny dispensing of the fluid 40. Even if the regimen36 were to require dispensation, the device-side monitoring application52 may decline, as the oral instrument 22 is not placed in the user'smouth.

FIGS. 12-13 are schematics illustrating detection of motion 160,according to exemplary embodiments. The sensor 34 may detect the motion160 of the oral instrument 22. The sensor 34, for example, may be anaccelerometer that detects yaw, pitch, and/or roll motions of the oralinstrument 22. The motion 160 of the oral instrument 22 may be used toinfer deliberate use. A rapid back-and-forth motion, for example, mayindicate the toothbrush 28 is brushing teeth in the user's mouth. Anarcing movement may indicate the spoon 30 is delivering food into theuser's mouth. The instrument-side monitoring application 58 may thuscompare the motion 160 to the threshold value 122. Here, though, thethreshold value 122 describes one or more yaw, pitch, and/or rollparameters that indicate acceptable movement of the oral instrument 22.If the motion 160 satisfies the threshold value 122, then theinstrument-side monitoring application 58 may infer that the oralinstrument 22 is placed in the user's mouth. The instrument-sidemonitoring application 58 may thus authorize dispensing of the fluid 40.If the motion 160 fails the threshold value 122, then theinstrument-side monitoring application 58 may infer that the oralinstrument 22 is not placed in the user's mouth. The instrument-sidemonitoring application 58 may thus deny dispensing of the fluid 40and/or ignore or any dosage command 110.

FIG. 13 illustrates remote notification of the motion 160. Here themotion 160 may be sent to the communications device 20. The message 70sent from the oral instrument 22 may thus include the motion 160detected by the sensor 34. When the message 70 is received by thecommunications device 20, the device-side monitoring application 52 mayitself compare the motion 160 to the threshold value 122. If the motion160 satisfies the threshold value 122, then the device-side monitoringapplication 52 may infer that the oral instrument 22 is placed in theuser's mouth. The device-side monitoring application 52 may thusauthorize dispensing of the fluid 40. If the motion 160 fails thethreshold value 122, then the device-side monitoring application 52 maydeny dispensing of the fluid 40. Even if the regimen 36 were to requiredispensation, the device-side monitoring application 52 may decline, asthe oral instrument 22 is not placed in the user's mouth.

FIGS. 14-15 are schematics illustrating detection of pressure 170,according to exemplary embodiments. Here exemplary embodiments maydetect the pressure 170 to infer use of the oral instrument 22. Thesensor 34, for example, may detect the pressure 170 applied to a handleof the oral instrument 22. When the user's hand grips the handle, thesensor 34 detects the pressure 170 applied to the handle. The pressure170 may be used to infer deliberate use. The instrument-side monitoringapplication 58 compares the pressure 170 to the threshold value 122.Here, though, the threshold value 122 describes some minimum pressurevalue from which deliberate use may be inferred. If the pressure 170satisfies the threshold value 122, then the instrument-side monitoringapplication 58 may infer that the oral instrument 22 is placed in theuser's mouth. The instrument-side monitoring application 58 may thusauthorize dispensing of the fluid 40. If the pressure 170 fails thethreshold value 122, then the instrument-side monitoring application 58may deny dispensing of the fluid 40 and/or ignore or any dosage command110.

FIG. 15 illustrates remote notification of the pressure 170. Here themessage 70 sent from the oral instrument 22 may include the pressure 170detected by the sensor 34. When the message 70 is received by thecommunications device 20, the device-side monitoring application 52 mayitself compare the pressure 170 to the threshold value 122. If thepressure 170 satisfies the threshold value 122, then the device-sidemonitoring application 52 may infer that the oral instrument 22 isplaced in the user's mouth. The device-side monitoring application 52may thus retrieve and monitor the regimen 36 to authorize dispensationof the fluid 40. If, however, the pressure 170 fails the threshold value122, then the device-side monitoring application 52 may deny dispensingof the fluid 40.

FIGS. 16-17 are schematics illustrating detection of an operational mode180, according to exemplary embodiments. Here dispensation of the fluid40 may be authorized simply when the oral instrument 22 is turned “on”by a switch. When the operational mode 180 is true, exemplaryembodiments may infer the oral instrument is brushing teeth or liftingfood. Exemplary embodiments may thus authorize dispensation. When theoperational mode 180 is true, the instrument-side monitoring application58 may thus authorize dispensing of the fluid 40. If the operationalmode 180 is false or “off,” then the instrument-side monitoringapplication 58 may deny dispensing of the fluid 40 and/or ignore or anydosage command 110.

FIG. 17 illustrates remote notification of the operational mode 180.Here the message 70 sent from the oral instrument 22 may include theoperational mode 180. When the message 70 is received by thecommunications device 20, the device-side monitoring application 52 mayuse the operational mode 180 to authorize or deny dispensation. If theoperational mode 180 is true, then the device-side monitoringapplication 52 may infer that the oral instrument 22 is placed in theuser's mouth. The device-side monitoring application 52 may thusretrieve and monitor the regimen 36 to authorize dispensation of thefluid 40. If, however, the operational mode 180 is false, then thedevice-side monitoring application 52 may deny dispensing of the fluid40.

FIG. 18 is a schematic illustrating confirmation of dispensation,according to exemplary embodiments. When the oral instrument 22dispenses the fluid 40, the regimen 36 should be updated. After all, ifthe regimen 36 is to be a truly useful tool toward recovery and ahealthy lifestyle, the regimen 36 should be continuously updated. As anyevent 84 requires some dispensation of the fluid 40 from the oralinstrument 22, exemplary embodiments update the regimen 36 to indicatecompliance.

FIG. 18 thus illustrates a confirmation message 200. When the oralinstrument 22 dispenses the fluid 40 from the reservoir 44, theinstrument-side monitoring application 58 may send the confirmationmessage 200 to the communications device 20. The confirmation message200 may include information describing a dosage date and time 202 thatthe dosage 100 was injected. The confirmation message 200 may alsoidentify the fluid 40, such as by a manufacturer's trade name. Theconfirmation message 200 routes to the network address associated withthe communications device 20. When the confirmation message 200 isreceived, the device-side monitoring application 52 may log the dosagedate and time 202 in an electronic journal 204. The journal 204 thustracks each dosage 100 of the fluid 40 injected by the oral instrument22.

FIG. 19 is a schematic illustrating alarm capabilities, according toexemplary embodiments. Even if the regimen 36 requires the dosage 100,the oral instrument 22 may not be currently in use. The above paragraphsthus explained how the oral instrument 22 may ignore the dosage command110. Here, though, the oral instrument 22 may chime, buzz, or otherwisealert when it's time to eat, take medication, or brush teeth. When thedosage command 110 is received, exemplary embodiments have determinedthat the regimen 36 requires the dosage 100 of the fluid 40. The oralinstrument 22 may thus activate an alarm 210 to indicate the dosage 100is due. The instrument-side monitoring application 58 causes theprocessor 56 to activate the alarm 210 when the dosage command 110 isreceived, but the oral instrument 22 is determined to be not in use (asearlier paragraphs explained). The alarm 210 may repeat until deliberateuse is determined (again as earlier paragraphs explained). The dosage100 may then be dispensed upon deliberate use. If the oral instrument 22has a display device 212, the alarm 210 may be visually presented. Thealarm 210 may also be audibly presented by an audible device 214, suchas a speaker, buzzer, or piezoelectric element.

FIG. 20 is a schematic illustrating social postings, according toexemplary embodiments. Here the oral instrument 22 and/or thecommunications device 20 may report the confirmation of the dosage 100to a social server 220. The social server 220 may then notify adistribution list 222 of addresses that the dosage 100 was successfullyadministered. The social server 220, for example, may be a web server,email server, text message server, TWITTER® server, or otherdistribution system. FIG. 20, for simplicity, illustrates theconfirmation message 70 routing to the social server 220. Theconfirmation message 70 may then be posted to the distribution list 222of addresses. The confirmation message 70 may also be uploaded to a webpage 224. Family, friends, and medical personnel may thus be informed ofthe dispensation. Friends and loved ones may thus confidently know thatmedicine is being regularly administered.

FIGS. 21-22 are more detailed block diagrams of the injector mechanism42, according to exemplary embodiments. When the oral instrument 22receives the dosage command 110, the instrument-side monitoringapplication 58 causes the processor 56 to activate the injectormechanism 42. The injector mechanism 42 may compress the fluid 40 in thereservoir 44. The fluid reservoir 44 has one or more sidewalls 230 thatcontain the fluid 40 within an interior of the oral instrument 22. Afluidic path 232 communicates the fluid 40 from an inlet 234 in thefluid reservoir 44 to an outlet 236. Because the injector mechanism 42compresses the fluid 40, the fluid 40 flows under pressure through thefluidic path 232 and discharges from the outlet 236. While the outlet236 may be located at any exterior location of the oral instrument 22,the outlet 236 is preferably located on an exterior surface in an oralportion of the oral instrument 22. Because the fluid 40 is preferablyingested, the outlet 236 is located in or on a portion of the oralinstrument 22 that is inserted into the user's mouth. The outlet 236,for example, is configured to discharge the fluid 40 near a bristledhead of the toothbrush or in proximity to the bowl of the spoon (thetoothbrush and spoon are illustrated, respectively, as referencenumerals 28 and 30 in FIG. 1).

FIG. 22 illustrates a nozzle 240. The nozzle 240 is illustrated in anenlarged view for clarity of features. The nozzle 240 may have a centralorifice 242 that diffuses the fluid 40 as it discharges from the outlet236 of the fluidic path 232. The diameter and/or shape of the centralorifice 242 may thus be chosen to spray, stream, or mist the dischargingfluid 40. The fluid 40 in the fluid reservoir 44, for example, may be anappetite suppressant that is sprayed on ingested food to reduceconsumption. The fluid 40 may be a flavor enhancer that complementsflavors in food. The fluid 40, for example, may be a concentrated gravy,liquid spice, or refreshment that is dispensed from the central orifice242. The fluid 40, however, may also alter a taste of food to discourageconsumption. The fluid 40, as earlier mentioned, may be a liquidmedicine that is orally dispensed.

FIG. 23 is a block diagram illustrating operational parameters,according to exemplary embodiments. Even though the dosage 100 is known(from the dosage command 110), the dosage 100 may need to be translatedinto parameters for the injector mechanism 42. A dosage 100 of “1teaspoon,” for example, is likely meaningless to the injector mechanism42. The injector mechanism 42, instead, may require motor and/or pumpparameters, such as voltages, currents, and/or displacements. That is,if the injector mechanism 42 is electromechanical, the injectormechanism 42 may only accept voltage and current parameters to injectthe fluid 40. So, when the oral instrument 22 receives the dosagecommand 110, the instrument-side monitoring application 58 may consult adatabase 250 of parameters. The database 250 of parameters determinesparameters 252 for actuating the injector mechanism 42, according to therequired dosage 100. The database 250 of parameters is illustrated as atable 254 that maps, relates, or associates different dosages 100 todifferent parameters 252 for actuating the injector mechanism 42. Theinstrument-side monitoring application 58 queries the database 250 ofparameters for the dosage 100 and retrieves the corresponding parameters252 for actuating the injector mechanism 42. The parameters 252 may thusbe a current and/or voltage at which the injector mechanism 42 is drivento dispense the required dosage 100. The parameters 252, however, mayalso include a linear displacement distance, pressure value, time ofactuation, speed of displacement, or any other value required foroperating the injector mechanism 42. Once the parameters 252 are known,the processor 56 is instructed to control the injector mechanism 42using the parameters 252.

The communications device 20 may thus be agnostic to the oral instrument22. That is, the communications device 20 need not care about themanufacturer or model of the oral instrument 22. All the communicationsdevice 20 need do is send the dosage command 110. The actual parameters252 for accurately dispensing the dosage 100 are handled by the oralinstrument 22. The oral instrument 22 may thus store its own operationalparameters 252 that ensure the dosage 100 is correctly administered. Thedevice-side monitoring application 52, in other words, need not store,retrieve, and interpret hundreds or thousands of parameters 252associated with different manufacturers of toothbrushes, spoons, forks,and other oral utensils. The device-side monitoring application 52 needonly send the required dosage 100, and the oral instrument 22 determinesits own operational parameters 252. The device-side monitoringapplication 52 is thus relieved of the burden of supporting differentoral instruments 22.

FIG. 24 is another detailed block diagram of the injector mechanism 42,according to exemplary embodiments. FIG. 24 illustrates an enlarged viewof a valve 260 in the oral instrument 22. Because the fluid 40 ispressurized, the fluid 40 may weep from the outlet 236 of the fluidicpath 232. Exemplary embodiments may thus include the valve 260 tomaintain pressure in the injector mechanism 42. The valve 260, forexample, may be configured in proximity to the outlet 236 of the fluidicpath 232. The valve 260 may open when pressure builds in the fluidicpath 232, thus allowing the fluid 40 to discharge. The valve 260,however, may close when pressure falls. So, as the injector mechanism 42operates to build up pressure for discharge, the valve 260 opens. Whenthe injector mechanism 42 stops, pressure in the fluidic path 232 willdrop, thus causing the valve 260 to close. While the valve 260 may beconfigured at any location along the fluidic path 232, a location inproximity to the outlet 236 may be preferred. A different location mayrequire higher pressures to ensure the pressurized fluid 40 flowsentirely along the fluidic path 232. Moreover, the valve 260 may bedesigned to prevent backflow, thus preventing saliva, toothpaste, andfood from entering and clogging the fluidic path 232.

The injector mechanism 42 may be any electromechanical design. Theinjector mechanism 42, for example, may include a fluid press thatcompresses the fluid 40 in the fluid reservoir 44. A piston bearsagainst the fluid 40 and moves or slides to compress the fluid 40. Thepiston connects to a rod that slides through an opening in the sidewall230 of the fluid reservoir 44. The rod is electromechanically moved bythe injector mechanism 42 according to the parameters 252 associatedwith the dosage 100. The piston may include a sealing ring to prevent orreduce pressure loss due to leakage of the fluid at the sidewall 230.

The injector mechanism 42 may include a pump. The pump is configured tobuild hydraulic pressure in the fluid reservoir 44. There are manydifferent designs and configurations of pumps, so exemplary embodimentsmay be adapted for any pump. As the pump builds pressure in the fluidreservoir 44, the pressurized fluid 40 flows through the fluidic path232 and discharges from the outlet 236.

FIG. 25 is a schematic illustrating an enlarged view of fluidicelectrodes 270, according to exemplary embodiments. The electrodes arearranged in series along an interior 272 of the fluidic path 232. Eachelectrode 270 is electrically activated by a voltage from a power source274. An interior wall 276 of the fluidic path 232 may be electricallygrounded to electrical ground. The instrument-side monitoringapplication 58 commands the processor 56 to sequentially activate theelectrodes 270. As the electrodes 270 are sequentially activated, thefluid 40 will transfer from the fluid reservoir 44 in discrete droplets278. Each droplet 278 is electrostatically attracted to an adjacent,activated electrode 270. By sequentially activating the electrodes 270,the droplets 278 of the fluid 40 may be transferred along the fluidicpath 232. The droplets 278 thus convey along the fluidic path 232 to theoutlet 236 for dispensation.

FIG. 26 is a schematic illustrating means for reducing turbulence in thefluid reservoir 44, according to exemplary embodiments. The fluidreservoir 44 is again illustrated in an enlarged view for clarity ofdetails. As the oral instrument 22 is manually used, the fluid 40 in thereservoir 44 may become turbulent. When the user brushes their teeth,for example, the relatively violent, back-and-forth motion of thetoothbrush 28 may cause turbulence in the fluid 40 contained in thefluid reservoir 44. When the fluid 40 is subjected to turbulentconditions, air bubbles may form in the fluid reservoir 44. These airbubbles may reduce the pressure in the fluid reservoir 44, thus reducingdispensation of the fluid 40 from the oral instrument 22.

Exemplary embodiments may thus include means for reducing turbulence inthe fluid reservoir 44. FIG. 26A, for example, illustrates one or morebaffles 280 in the fluid reservoir 44. If the fluid 40 agitates duringuse, the baffle 280 dampens motion of the fluid 40 to reduce turbulence.The baffle 280 may be a partial partition or wall in the interior of thefluid reservoir 44. Each baffle 280 may have a rigid or pliable design,depending on the level of turbulence. FIG. 26B illustrates one or moredampening fingers 282 that reduce turbulence. Each finger 282 outwardlyextends from the interior wall 230 of the fluid reservoir 44. Eachfinger 282 sways to dampen motion of the fluid 40 in the reservoir 44.FIG. 26C also illustrates the fingers 282, but here the fingers 282outwardly extend from a central post 284. The central post 284 upwardlyor outwardly projects from the interior wall 230 of the fluid reservoir44. There may be any number of fingers 282 that extend from the centralpost 284, thus resembling a spider or crab configuration. If the oralinstrument 22 experiences violent motions, the fingers 282 reduceturbulence in the fluid 40. Because the fingers 282 illustrated in FIG.26C radially extend from the central post 284, the fingers 282 maydampen any directional flow of the fluid 40. That is, whether the oralinstrument 22 is shook up or down, left or right, the radially extendingfingers 282 dampen in any direction.

The baffle 280 and the finger 282 may be hydraulically tuned. Becausethe fluid reservoir 44 may be refilled with different liquids, thedifferent liquids will have different viscosities. Some liquids, then,may become easily disturbed (such as mouthwash), while other liquids arethicker and less easily disturbed (such as cough syrup). Some designs ofthe baffle 280 and the finger 282 may thus be better suited to lowerviscosities of fluids, while other designs may be better for higherviscosities. Exemplary embodiments, then, may include varyingcross-sectional designs for the baffle 280 and the finger 282. That is,each baffle 280 and/or finger 282 may have a varying cross-section froman initial cross-section to a lesser, final cross-section. The lesser,initial cross-section, for example, may be configured at the interiorwall 230 of the fluid reservoir 44. As the baffle 280 and/or the finger282 outwardly extend, each may reduce in cross-section. A tip of thebaffle 280 and/or the finger 282, having the lesser, finalcross-section, may thus dampen the fluid 40 during small motions of theoral instrument 22. Larger motions will progressively deflect downtoward the base at the interior wall 230. The baffle 280 and the finger282 thus sway during turbulent conditions in the reservoir 44. Theirswaying movement dampens the motion of the fluid 40 in the reservoir 44,thus reducing formation of air bubbles. While the baffle 280 and thefinger 282 may be made from any material, the material is preferablyunaffected by the chemical composition of the fluid 40. A mouthwash, forexample, may have a high alcohol content, so the baffle 280 ispreferably unaffected by alcohol.

FIGS. 27-28 are flowcharts illustrating a method or algorithm formonitoring health, according to exemplary embodiments. The message 70 issent identifying the oral instrument 22 (Block 300). The regimen 36 isretrieved that is associated with the identifier 72 of the oralinstrument 22 (Block 302). The regimen 36 is inspected for events (Block304). The dosage 100 of the fluid 40 is determined from the regimen 36(Block 306). The dosage command 110 is sent to instruct the oralinstrument 22 to dispense the dosage 100 of the fluid 40 (Block 308).Presence of the oral instrument 22 in an oral cavity is determined(Block 310).

The algorithm continues with FIG. 28. If the presence is confirmed(Block 312), then dispensation of the dosage 100 is authorized (Block314). If the presence is unconfirmed (Block 312), the dispensation isdenied (Block 316). The alarm 210 is activated (Block 318) to alert ofthe dosage requirement. Because the fluid 40 may be a required medicine,the algorithm may continually monitor for the presence of the oralinstrument 22 in the oral cavity (e.g., return to Block 310 of FIG. 27).

When dispensation is authorized (Block 314), a query is made forparameters for dispensing the dosage 100 of the fluid 40 from the oralinstrument 22 (Block 320). The parameter 252 is retrieved that isassociated with the dosage 100 of the fluid 40 (Block 322). The oralinstrument 22 is operated according to the parameter 252 (Block 324).The dosage 100 of the fluid 40 is dispensed (Block 326). Thedispensation is logged in the electronic journal 204 (Block 328). Theconfirmation message 70 may be sent to confirm dispensation (Block 330).

FIG. 29 is a schematic illustrating still more exemplary embodiments.FIG. 29 is a generic block diagram illustrating the device-sidemonitoring application 52, and/or the instrument-side monitoringapplication 58, operating within a processor-controlled device 400. Asthe previous paragraphs explained, the device-side monitoringapplication 52 and the instrument-side monitoring application 58 mayoperate in any processor-controlled device 400. FIG. 29, then,illustrates the device-side monitoring application 52 and theinstrument-side monitoring application 58 stored in a memory subsystemof the processor-controlled device 400. One or more processorscommunicate with the memory subsystem and execute the device-sidemonitoring application 52 and the instrument-side monitoring application58. Because the processor-controlled device 400 illustrated in FIG. 29is well-known to those of ordinary skill in the art, no detailedexplanation is needed.

FIG. 30 depicts still more operating environments for additional aspectsof the exemplary embodiments. FIG. 30 illustrates that the exemplaryembodiments may alternatively or additionally operate within otherprocessor-controlled devices 400. FIG. 30, for example, illustrates thatthe device-side monitoring application 52, and/or the instrument-sidemonitoring application 58, may entirely or partially operate within aset-top box (“STB”) (402), a personal/digital video recorder (PVR/DVR)404, personal digital assistant (PDA) 406, a Global Positioning System(GPS) device 408, an interactive television 410, an Internet Protocol(IP) phone 412, a pager 414, a cellular/satellite phone 416, or anycomputer system, communications device, or any processor-controlleddevice utilizing a digital signal processor (DP/DSP) 418. The device 400may also include watches, radios, vehicle electronics, clocks, printers,gateways, mobile/implantable medical devices, and other apparatuses andsystems. Because the architecture and operating principles of thevarious devices 400 are well known, the hardware and softwarecomponentry of the various devices 400 are not further shown anddescribed.

Exemplary embodiments may be physically embodied on or in acomputer-readable storage medium. This computer-readable medium mayinclude CD-ROM, DVD, tape, cassette, floppy disk, memory card, andlarge-capacity disks. This computer-readable medium, or media, could bedistributed to end-subscribers, licensees, and assignees. A computerprogram product comprises processor-executable instructions formonitoring health, as the above paragraphs explained.

While the exemplary embodiments have been described with respect tovarious features, aspects, and embodiments, those skilled and unskilledin the art will recognize the exemplary embodiments are not so limited.Other variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments may be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the exemplaryembodiments.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method, comprising: facilitating establishing,by a mobile communication device including a processor, a wirelesscommunication with an oral instrument having a network interface to awireless network; receiving, by the mobile communication device, amessage sent via the wireless network from the oral instrument, themessage specifying an identifier associated with the oral instrument;identifying, by the mobile communication device, a regimen by queryingan electronic database for the identifier specified by the message sentvia the wireless network from the oral instrument, the electronicdatabase electronically associating regimens to identifiers includingthe identifier associated with the oral instrument; determining, by themobile communication device, from the regimen that a dosage of a fluidis to be dispensed from the oral instrument; and sending, by the mobilecommunication device, a dosage command via the wireless network to theoral instrument, the dosage command instructing the oral instrument todispense the dosage of the fluid.
 2. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising receiving, by the mobile communication device, data sent fromthe oral instrument.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the dataindicates the detected movement.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein thedosage command indicates the dosage of the fluid.
 5. The method of claim1, further comprising logging, by the mobile communication device, thedispensation in an electronic journal.
 6. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising receiving, by the mobile communication device, a confirmationof the dispensation.
 7. The method of claim 6, further comprisinglogging, by the mobile communication device, the confirmation in anelectronic journal.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the mobilecommunication device comprises a smart phone.
 9. The method of claim 1,wherein the oral instrument comprises an electronic toothbrush.
 10. Amethod, comprising: facilitating establishing, by a system including aprocessor, wireless communication between a network interface of an oralinstrument and a mobile communication device; sending, by the system, amessage via the network interface of the oral instrument to the mobilecommunication device, the message specifying an identifier associatedwith the oral instrument; receiving, by the system, a dosage command viathe network interface sent from a network address assigned to the mobilecommunication device, the dosage command determined from the identifierspecified by the message, the dosage command specifying a dosage offluid to be dispensed from the oral instrument; determining, by thesystem, a presence of the oral instrument in an oral cavity, thedetermining being based on a detected movement of the oral instrumentsatisfying a threshold; and authorizing, by the system, a dispensationof the dosage of fluid from the oral instrument in response to thedetermining the presence of the oral instrument in the oral cavity. 11.The method of claim 10, further comprising logging, by the system, thedispensation in an electronic journal.
 12. The method of claim 10,further comprising sending, by the system, a confirmation of thedispensation to the network address assigned to the mobile communicationdevice.
 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising logging, by thesystem, the confirmation in an electronic journal.
 14. The method ofclaim 10, wherein the mobile communication device comprises a smartphone.
 15. The method of claim 10, wherein the oral instrument comprisesan electronic toothbrush.
 16. A method, comprising: facilitatingestablishing, by an oral instrument including a processor, a wirelesscommunication between a network interface of the oral instrument and amobile communication device; sending, by the oral instrument, a messagevia the network interface to a network address associated with themobile communication device, the message specifying an identifierassociated with the oral instrument; receiving, by the oral instrument,a dosage command from the mobile communication device that instructs theoral instrument to dispense droplets of a fluid, the dosage commanddetermined from the identifier specified by the message sent from theoral instrument to the mobile communication device; identifying, by theoral instrument, an injector parameter by querying an electronicdatabase for the dosage command, the electronic database electronicallyassociating injector parameters to dosages including the injectorparameter that is electronically associated with the dosage command;comparing, by the oral instrument, a yaw to a threshold value associatedwith an oral cavity; in response to the yaw failing to satisfy thethreshold value associated with the oral cavity, denying, by the oralinstrument, a dispensation of the droplets of the fluid from the oralinstrument; and in response to the yaw satisfying the threshold valueassociated with the oral cavity, authorizing, by the oral instrument,the dispensation of the droplets of the fluid from a reservoir alongfluidic electrodes arranged in a series along an interior of a fluidicpath according to the injector parameter.
 17. The method of claim 16,further comprising electrically grounding an interior wall of thefluidic path.
 18. The method of claim 16, further comprisingsequentially activating the fluidic electrodes.
 19. The method of claim16, further comprising conveying the droplets of the fluid along thefluidic electrodes by sequentially activating the fluidic electrodes.20. The method of claim 16, further comprising damping the fluidcontained in the reservoir by radially extending fingers from a centralpost that outwardly projects from an interior of the reservoir.